-Riti Meher Shrestha
The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the air as Sita and Laxmi settled into their favorite corner at the cafe. It was their monthly ritual—a time to escape from work, family duties, and life’s chaos and just be themselves.
They laughed over old college memories, gossiped about mutual friends, and discussed everything from career ambitions to the latest Korean series. But today, Laxmi seemed distant, her eyes occasionally traveling to her phone, her fingers fidgeting with the teacup.
Sita noticed. “Alright, spill it. What’s bothering you?”
Laxmi hesitated, her cheeks turning pink. “It’s…um…personal.”
Sita leaned in; her eyes playful. “Since when do we have secrets? We’ve shared everything—even that terrible movie date you went on!”
Laxmi’s lips curved into a reluctant smile. She took a deep breath. “It’s about…intimacy with Vishnu. Things have changed, Sita. It’s just…not the same anymore.”
Sita’s smile faded, replaced by concern. “What do you mean?”
Laxmi looked away, her voice trembling with emotion. “It hurts. I feel dry and a burning sensation, even when I want him close. It’s uncomfortable, and I see the confusion in Vishnu’s eyes, which only makes it harder, but I don’t know how to explain it to him.”
Sita’s eyes softened. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
Laxmi’s shoulders fell. “It’s embarrassing!” “I couldn’t understand what was happening to me.”
Sita squeezed Laxmi’s hand. “You’re not alone. It happens to many women, but nobody talks about it.”
Laxmi looked up with eyes wide. “You too?”
Sita nodded. “After I had Kush, things changed. I felt exactly how you’re now—dry, uncomfortable, and frustrated. I even started avoiding intimacy because I was scared of the pain. I thought I was broken. But then…someone helped me.”
Laxmi leaned in with curiosity and hope flickering in her eyes. “Who?”
Sita grinned. “My gynecologist. She explained that personal lubricant is a simple, effective solution that reduces friction, enhances comfort, and helps both partners feel more at ease during intimacy. Vaginal dryness can happen for many reasons—hormonal changes, certain medications and hygiene products, medical procedures, stress, childbirth, breastfeeding, diabetes, and even dehydration. And there’s a simple solution…lubricant.”
Laxmi’s eyes widened. “Lubricant? Isn’t that for older women?”
Sita laughed. “That’s such a myth! Personal lubricants aren’t just for older women or certain situations. Anyone who wants to feel more comfortable, connected, confident, and pleasurable can use them. There are different types—water-based, silicone-based, and natural oil-based. Water-based lubricants are the most popular ones. They are safe to use with condoms and easy to clean. Silicone-based ones last longer and are great for more intense sessions. The key is to explore and identify what genuinely works best for you.”
She paused, her voice turning serious. “You know what else changed? Our communication. When I finally talked to Ram about it, I realized he was worried too. He thought I wasn’t attracted to him anymore. Using a lubricant wasn’t just about easing the discomfort—it helped us reconnect on a deeper level.”
Laxmi felt a weight lift off her chest. “I never thought of it that way. I was too busy feeling ashamed to see how it affected Vishnu too.”
Sita smiled warmly. “Exactly. It’s just a product, Laxmi, but it can make a difference. And the best part? It’s completely safe. Just make sure to choose one that’s compatible with condoms if you’re using them.”
“Oh, and here’s a great tip—certain lubricants can create warming or cooling sensations. Just imagine the excitement that could bring!” Laxmi couldn’t help but laugh, feeling renewed hope for the first time in weeks.
Laxmi went home that evening and had an honest conversation with Vishnu. As she spoke, she saw his face soften with understanding. They explored their options and read product descriptions and reviews online. When they finally tried the lubricant, it wasn’t just about physical comfort—it was the healing of the emotional distance that had grown between them.
A week later, Laxmi texted Sita: “I wish I’d talked to you sooner. Thank you for the smooth and pleasurable ride.”
Sita smiled as she read the message, feeling a sense of fulfillment. She realized how powerful conversations could be—how sharing experiences could break the taboo surrounding women’s sexual health.
Takeaway: Women are often taught to accept compromises quietly, particularly intimacy. But pain, discomfort, and shame don’t have to be part of the experience. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, it doesn’t mean you’re broken or less of a woman. It’s okay to seek solutions. Sometimes, the most transformative solutions come from the simplest conversations. So, break the silence. Embrace the conversation. And let love flow, freely and joyfully—no matter the time.